Scholes: Guardiola is definitely an influence on the English team

Gareth Southgate has led the English charge in Russian Federation as they are just two days away from playing their first World Cup semi-final in 28 years.

"Guardiola has definitely been an influence for the national team, you just have to see the way the three centre-backs play and the way our goalkeeper plays". I think he's been to see Pep and he's picked his brain and he wants to know how he produces that type of football.

Manager Gareth Southgate has overseen England's revolution, something made all the more miraculous by him only getting the job after Sam Allardyce was sacked for what we'll call "off the field activities".

Guardiola guided Manchester City to a Premier League title this season playing expansive football and often selecting three at the back.

Four of Guardiola's City squad have been called for England at the World and they are playing a great role at England run at the competition.

"So why not try and copy that type of play?".

"I think he's in danger of having an impact on English football", Southgate said of the City boss.

"He's been an innovator".

"I don't see (coaches) with heads in their hands saying "get it forward".

"That, coupled with us going to smaller-sized pitches and smaller games, all of that is helping football at the youngest possible age groups". Is Neymar's reputation done?

It's working so far, with England into their first World Cup semi-final since 1990. Check out the brand new daily JOE World Cup Minipod hosted by Dion Fanning and Paddy McKenna.